Annual minimum compensation

Bulgaria's annual minimum compensation is 7440 BGN, calculated from the monthly minimum wage of 1213 BGN effective January 1, 2026. This rule establishes the lowest permissible gross monthly salary that employers must pay to workers across all sectors of the economy, regardless of employment contract type or industry classification.

The minimum wage applies to all employees working under an employment contract in Bulgaria and covers the base compensation before any deductions, bonuses, or allowances. It serves as a floor below which no employer may legally compensate a worker for a standard full-time position. The rule protects workers from exploitation while providing employers with clear wage floor guidance for payroll planning and budgeting.

The regulation is governed by Bulgaria's Labour Code and administered by the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy (Министерство на труда и социалната политика). The Council of Ministers (Министерски съвет) formally establishes the minimum wage amount annually through official decree, with the current rate taking effect on January 1, 2026.

Bulgaria adjusted its minimum wage from the previous year's rate to 1213 BGN monthly, reflecting economic conditions and inflation considerations. This represents the statutory floor for all employment relationships unless collective bargaining agreements or sectoral regulations establish higher minimums.

Employers and payroll teams must ensure all employee compensation meets or exceeds 1213 BGN per month. Payroll systems should be configured to prevent underpayment, and employment contracts must reflect wages compliant with this statutory minimum. Non-compliance carries penalties under Bulgarian labour law.